Flying wedge

The flying wedge, or simply V formation, is a powerful solution using brutal nature to protect the ball. It used ancient military formations as its basis. This formation paralyzes the defenders as they can’t act anyway except by throwing themselves through the wedge.

The first usage of this tactic is dated 1892. Harvard coach Lorin Deland developed the effective method, but it often caused severe injuries. Spine, head, and neck traumas dominated the list. Despite that fact, teams continued to exploit it. Some inventions like the helmet and protective equipment for the back didn’t change the situation of that brutal nature. The final point causing its ban was the series of concussions during the 2008 season.

This formation was popular in other sports like rugby union. But they banned this grouping due to security concerns.